REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 02791788 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER.. 1032298 Report of the Trustees and Financial Slatements for the Year Endod 31 March 2024 for Black Country Wom8n's Ald Black Couniry Women's Ald Contents of the Flnanclal Statements for Ihe Year Ended 31 March 2024 Page Reference and Administrative Delalls Rèport of tha Trustoas 2 to 14 Report of the Independent Audltors 15 to 16 Statement of Financial Activities 17 Balance Sheet 18 Cash Flow Statement 19 Noles to the Cash Flow Statement 20 Nole8 to the Flnan¢lal Statements 21 to 29 Black Couniry Women's Ald Reference and Admlnlstratlve Detalls for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 TRUSTEES Salma Parween Ali Bozena Benton Karen Elizabeth Dowman Vicloria Rebecca Harris Melvèna Morton COMPANY SECRETARY Sara Ward REGISTERED OFFICE Landchard House Victoria Street West Bromich B70 8HY REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER 02791788 {Engl8nd and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER 1032298 AUDITORS TAG Assurance Services Limited Chartered Accounlanls and Registered Auditors 8 Pendeford Place Pendeford Business Park Wolverhampton West Midlands WV9 5HD Page 1 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Tha Irusleas who are also diroctors of the charity for th8 purposas of Ihe Compani8s Act 2006, pr8s8nt their r&port with Ihe financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2024. The Irust&es have adopted the provisions of Accounting and Reporting by Charities-. Statemenl of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Flnanclal Reporting Standard appllcable In the UK and Republlc of Ireland (FRS 1021 {effecllve 1 January 2019). OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES Objectlves and alms Black Country Women's Aid's IBCWA) objectives are: to relieve the physical and mental distress of women who are homeless andlor have been gravely or persistently mislrealed by their husbar)ds. the men with whom they are1Svlng, the fathers of theSr children or any other members of their family: and to relieve the physical and menlBI distress of children affected by the disruption in the home. Significant activiti8s The main objectives and activities of the year have continued to focus on the development of quality support service8 for victims of violence, abuse and exploitation both in and out of refuge, The strategiev employed to a￿¢SIst the charity in meeting these objectives included the following.. Delivery of high quality serwces that includ8 em8rgency accommodation as w811 as community- bas8d support for both adult and child victims of violence and abuse including victims of modern slavery Sustaining and further development of services to meet victims. needs acro8S thg Black Country area and where necessary further afield. IdentifyiTrJ and applying for additional funds to sustain existing services and develop new response5 to meet victims, needs. Developing systems that capture, cope and r8cov8r outcomes for victims. This information is us8d to demonstrate the effectiveness and impact of support setvices and evidence the need for additional services via commissioningltendenng. Responding to the changing and complex needs of victims. BCWA will achieve this by ensuring that il create5 opportunities to engage through increased partnership work and beller coordination. Publlc beneflt These essential services provide a valuable public benefit to the citizens of the Black Country, Wesl Midlands and throughout th8 UK. The Iruslees have complied with their duly lo have due regard to the commission's public benefit guidance when &xercising any powers or dut18s lo which the guidanc8 is relevant. Page 2 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 ACHIEVEMENT AND PERFORMANCE Development, Actlvltles and Achlevements for 202314 In February 2023 a raft of new measures were announced to deal with domestic abuse. There will be a legal duty placed upon a 'range of agencies, so Ihal there is a joined up approach to identify and tackle domestic abuse. Violence against women is lo be treated as a national threal - on 8 par with terrorism. Rishi Sunak: "No woman or girl should ever have to feel unsafe in her home or community and l am determined to stsmp out these appalling crimes. As well as extra support for vidims, we're making it a priority for the police to tsckle violence against women and girls and tOU9lieni1i9 UP the way offenders are niana9ed - pievenlin9 tnore of Ihe5e criffles from happeni119 in the first place, and biingin9 more perpetrators to justice. Government will also require police forces to treat violence against women and girls as a nalional threat, as sel out in a new strategic policing requirement published today. This means tackling these crimes will be as Important as tackling threats like terrorism. seiious and organised crime and child sexual abuse. Greater emphasis is to be placed on the 'a$k for ANI, {Action Needed Immediately) - the Gode word scheme that enables victim8 of abuse to ask for immediate help in participating Phamiacies and Job Centres. Over 5,000 phamiacies including Boots. Lloyds and community pharrnacies are enrolled Dn the scheme. Home Secretary, Suella Braverman.. .police forces in England and Wales will now have to treat violence against women ond girls as a nationol threat and more victims will be protected from harm." While we are 5eelng some of th8 irnpact of the Domestic Abuse Act becoming law, St Is also clear that more needs to be done to keep women and children safe from domesllc abuse. Duriro the year BCWA contributed to the national audit conducted by the Women's Aid Federation for England. Th8 key findings wore as follows- Many women struggled to access services equipped to meet their needs.. Almost a quarter of survivors122.3 /0> reported having a physical health disability, however, only 1.1.10 of refuge vacancies listed on Routes to Support in 2021-22 were suitable for a woman with limbted mobility and just 0.90A of vacancies could accommodate a woman requiring a wheelchair accessible space.Whilsl 4,611 112.1 Q/0} Servi￿ users were not British nationals and, of these, 300/0 did not have recourse to public funds INRPFI, only 9.10/0 of all vacancies could consider women with NRPF. Most women162.OQ/ol had children, with an 8ver8ge of 1.3 children per seNice user, and y8t, less than half of refuge vacancies could accommodate a woman with two children. Shortfalls persist in refuge bedspaces and vacancies,. The increase we saw in the number of bedsp8ces during 2020-21 (largely as a result of emergency Covid-19 funding) appears to h8ve been sustained over 2021-22 and bedspaces have increased11 st May 20221 by a further 55. There is, however, still a 23.20/0 shortfall, Meanwhile, despite Ihis increase in Ihe number of spaces, 229 fewer vacanciès were made available during 2021-22 overall compared to 2020-21, when vacancies were already al significantly lower levels due to the impacl of the pandemic. Experiences of service providers around Ihe implementation of the duly were mixed.. Some reported feeling oplimism for service expansion from the increase in dedicated funding149.20/u of respondents running refuge services had received funding as a result of the slalutory duty), however, there were also significant concerns around the commercialisation of commissioning and variation in the way that local authoritiès were inlarpreling the regulations and guidance. Services were concerned about decommissioning of specialist services, particularly those run 'by and for, Black and minorilised women, in favour of competitive tenders, more gen8ric housing-focused providers and taking services 'in-hous8'. 11 was vital that BCWA 18mainèd highly visib16 and r8sponsiv8 lo victims. Overall referral numbers 2023124 12.096 cases were opened during 2023124. These included: Domestic abuse community seNices'. 7,986 lof these, 290 ￿ferraIS were into Ask MARC DA male specialist support services) Rape and sexual violence services: 1,346 (of these, 70 referrals were into Ask MARC SV male specialist support servI￿s) Childrèn's s8Nices.' 178 Stalking seNces= 930 Therapeutic services.. 413 Modern slavery services.. 528 Page 3 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 DA accommodation s&rvices.' 288 Iraquests for refuge, of which 86 nèw cliènts wère accommodaladl Women's justice setvices= 427 ear in our service 2023-2024 258,978 entries recorded into our case management system 52,661 calls made to agencies and clients 33,594 emails and texts lo clients 25,125 calls and texts from clients and agencies 13 calls or texts per hour to our helpline Truslees. seniDr management and all staff worked together to devise operational plans. These plans Sncluded.. Being where ViGtims Gan reaGh us BCWA erbsures that the geiieral publio know how to make contact for lielp, advice and supp)rt, Each BCWA centre is located in areas with good transport links, discreet locations and which are acc8ssible for victims needing help and support. We respond when they are ready io talk. Key messa9ing lo victims is vttal lo let them know that they are not alone even though Ihey are often mad8 lo feel that they are. BCWA knows that a victim making the choice to pick up the thone or mak8 the decision lo leave is at significanl risk of serious hurt and harm. We respond swiflly and confidently, BCWA works with local councils. stral8gic partnerships and th8 business community to promote the services offered. Social media and inveslment in quality communications ansures Ihat wa reach peopl8 living in our communilias who rnay ba living wilh abuse. BCWA regularly features on local radio and maintains a high social media prosence for greater reach. Unfortunately due to funding BCWA were forced lo close the office in Walsall. To mitigate the loss of office space BCWA worked with loc31 partners to identify alternative spaces lo connect with viclimslsurvivors so that the quality of service was not affected. BCWA1Sslens and hears the voSces of those that we provlde servl¢es to. This Is done In ways thal enable a dlalogue. feedback and impacl. their voice is vital lo the future direction of services. Where gaps in service are identified BCWA aim to respond. The integrated abuse support vision aims to offer help and support to anyone who has experienced abuse and for that Se￿1￿ lo be under one roof and easily accessible. Sacuro and Quality information - BCWA continue lo develop ils technological systems and resources for accurate record keeping and data capture, Much of this informs strategic partnerships, influences slralegy and Identifles Irends an¢J Changes to enable responses lo be appropriate and proportional8. We have been able to analyse information lo ensure that services reflecl the needs of the communities we s8rve, ensur8 effici8nt use of precious staff r8sources and manag8 the increasing volumes. Achieving Cyber S8curily standards remains a high priority as victims in services need to be confid8nt that BCWA is able lo store and keep safe infomialion about their abuse. BCWA has achieved the Cyber Essential standards both self-assessmenl and Cyber Essentials Plus for the 3rd year running. During the year BCWA also prepared submissions for the IASME Cyber Assurance standard level 1. Thls provides assurance that BCWA has put into place a range of important cyber se¢udty, and data protection measures. Quality information has b88n vital to sharé information at Domestic homicida rgviaws. It is 88S8nlial that accurat8 infomiation about the support BCWA and partn8rs have provided lor noll is 8nalys8d lo enabl8 improvements lo systems, procedur8s and partner working. Trustees agre8d that in 2024125 BCWA would invest inlo a new data system. BCWA will be working with IT providers to develop a more up lo date System of Case managemenl and dats Gapture. Maklng ovary contact count - BCWA CDntinue to invest time and resoLArces to ensure that there are effective and connected operational systems lo identify and support victims of abuse where ever they living wilhin the West Midlands. The use of social media, promolional campaigns, weekly updates and messaging as well as joinl work with partners, ensures Ihal we reach as many people as possible. Communicating with victims has changed over the years and we need to make sure that we change and respond to in a way victims can engage and access services. Since COVID, Ihere has been a slow recovery from online communication to face to face. Howèver. BCWA is pléasèd to be able to offer a range of options for people who need us. Making every conlacl count means Ihal from the 1 st call or conversation victims are given resources and suppori lo enable them to make informed decisions. F8edback from viclimslsurvivors was extremely posilive and many commented on the positive engagemenl they maintsin wilh Iheir support worker. Belng Ihere at court - The post COVID pandemic continues to have an impact on the operation of the criminal justice system and the support available to victims, A hard-hilting report by domestic abuse charity, Advance, reveals thal women are failed al every stage of the criminal justice syslem and is calling for drastic change. Her Story, Her Justice shines a spotlight on each juncture where survivor5 of domestic abuse are let down - from the minute they report abuse to the police, through to a traumalising and often unsuccessful prosecution process as they seek justice and protection through the courts. The shameful fact is that 96 /0 of domestic abuse crimes do NOT resull in a prosecution. Even in cases where prosecution is successful, Advance has found that survivors often receive inadequale information and protection following their abuserfs conviction. Page 4 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 These failures are a kèy reason why pros&cutions and convictions have bèen on the downslide since 2015, says Advance. In 2023, there werg nearly 300,000 more reports ol domeslic abuse-ralated crimes lo the police than in 2018. Yet, in that same period Iherg were nearty 40,000 fewer prosecutions by the CPS - and less than 50k of reported crimes load lo a prosecul'on. Advance's CEO, Llz Mack, explains.. "We must shine a light on the shockingly low rate of prosecutions and conviction5 for domestic abuse, and the re-lraumatisation of women during the fractured and protracled criminal justice process. in order lo campaign for urgent change. With this national campaign we will highlight the systemic failures which are preventing women from seeing justice. Tlie Donieslic Abuse cotntnis5ioiier, Nicole Jacobs, Says.. "Domestic abuse is a devastating and widespread crime, making up one in six reports to the police. Yet as Her Story, Her Justice makes clear, victims and survivors are still being failed al every stage of the criminal justice systetv. We're constantly asking ourselves how criminal justice system can improve. In this report you have the insight of frontline staff that have been working on the ground for years to do just that: improve criminal justice outcomes for victims and survivors. This is exactly the kind of infomiation that 8hould be in front of every Griminal justice leader a8 they work lo bring our sy81em up to a standard that victims and survivors can believe in. It's time government and policing leaders lo get lo grips with this very 58rious problem. This r8PDrt gives vital insights from the front line and a blueprint lo make that a reality. Deloys in court heorings and postponed oases have meant thol there is a significant backlog of court hearings. Many victims in BC'S services are supported by Independent Domestic Advisers {IDVA'sl and Independent Sexual Violence Advisers IISVA'sj. For 8CWA sUPPOrt staff. this has meant that victims are within the service longer than previously recorded, trauma levels are higher and there is an increasing volume of new referrals into the service lo support, creating genuine pressure points in the service. There Is no doubt that this will have a lasting impact on victims and will challenge resources into the next financial year. BCWA will conlinug to support victims al court and vace victims concarns in stratogic and policy space8. Maintaining positive p8rtnership5 BCWA is a valued partner with both stalulory and non-slalulory partners. BCWA has made significant contributions to local strategic plans and play an active role in providing information, data, and access lo victims to enable strategies and commissions lo be developed. BCVVA also takes its responsibility seriously to seek addilional funds to support local funding strengthening service offers. 8CWA acknowledges that it is vital to receive funding from a variety of funders to avoid reliance on statutory funding bul also to lever additional funding lo support local strategies. 8CWA continues to makes a significant contribution lo the partnerships across the 4 Black Country authorities (Sandwell, Dudley, Walsall and Wolverhamptonl, influencing strategic and operational development, These includ8 vital partnerships such as th8 Sandwell Crime Reduction PartnershiplS8fer S8ndwell, Sandwell Domestic Abuse Slralegic Partnership IDASPI Dudley Domestic Abuse Strategic Partnership and Forum IDDAF) and Dudley Safe and Sound, Walsall Domestic Abuse Strategic Group ( DASG) and Violent Leads Group as well as operational groups focusing on young people al risk of exploilalion, Local Safeguarding Children's and Adults Board, Wesl Midlands Rape and Sèrious Sexual Offences IRASSOI Board, Sexual Assault Relerral Cénlre ISARCI Board and local Multi-Agèncy Risk Assessmenl Conferencing (MARACI and Mulli Agency Safeguarding Hubs (MASH) as W811 as taking Ihemalic leads on domestic abuse, mod8m slavery and slalking at the Offic8 of th8 Police Crime Commissioner's Victim's Commission. The Victims Commission is Ihe PCC'S advisory body on the provision of specialist services. The role of th8 Victim's Commission is lo ensure that services have a positive impact on victims, improving Ihe circumstances of individuals affected by crime, to Cope with the effects of their experiences and recover from the harm they have experienced. In a(*Jilion to the above multi agency partnerships, BCWA works with specialist services nationally and across the region to ensure that services are coordinated and meet Ihe highest standards. The organisation has continued ils partnerships work with the following.. National Stalking Consortium, Specialist Domostic Violonce and Abusa Consortium, Rape and Sexual Violenc8 Consortium and the Women's Justice Partnership supporting vulnerable people. This approach continues to demonstrale that agencies cannot work in isolation, bul are always stronger togethgr, During 2023124 the BCWA Chief Ex&culive worf(ad hard to ensura thal services across the Black Country W8re reprasanled and funding socured. This approach ramains inlagral to the future of specialist services as we continue lo faca challanges. Tho Office of the Police Crimo Commissioners Victim's Commission has succeodod in building a culture of collaboration and ownership for victim care through the voluntary and community seclor, so that Ihey experience quality support from the first point of contsct. BCWA continues to work with The Salvation Army and the England and Wales delivery partners on challenging local re3ponses, improving systems and services for victims of modern slavery within the National Referral Mechanism. Page 5 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Cost of Ilvlng crlsls contlnues - Sadly, women continue lo be disproportionately afféct8d by tha cost-of-living crisis, particularly those who find themselves living in an abusive household or in an abusive relationship. This is even more acute for Black women and women of other ethnic minorities, who experience significantly higher rates of poverty. Women's Aid surveyed women who have experiern￿d domestic abuse in the past year and the majority 19601.) said the crisis has had a negative impact on their financial situation. Some women face the impossible choice between staying in an abusive relationship, or leaving and experiencing further financial hardship or deslilution. Several charities have expressed concern that Ihe situation is making il difficult for women to escape from thèir abusers. In some cases. wcfflen have been required to return to live with their abusers because they cannot afford lo live alone. Almost Ihree quarters of women 173 /.) living with. or having financial links with. their abuser said that the cost-of-living crisis had eilher prevented them from leaving or made il harder for them to leave. This has left Iliem al risk iii ali uiisale lioffle. The silualioii is ofien compuuiided by Ilie faLI Ihal abubers 50171eliine5 cul oll 11)eir viclirTlS Iroffl aiiy financial resources (for more information. see our article on economic controll. Abusers are relying on the cosl-of-living crisis to furlher justify restricling access lo money, leaving victims cut off. BCWA is committed to gnsuring that victims hav8 8ccess to food, clothing and shelter and has established positiv8 and committed links with local people, communities and business85. BCWA supporterfs generosity comes in both financial support as w811 as essential items such as clothing, loilelries, start-up kits for new mothers and any call outs for help when someone we support has very little on arrival into refuge. Our links with local foodbanks, other charities and the cornmunity voluntary organisations enabled food, clothing and esser)tials for distribution, as families lold us how they continue to slrnggle with me&ling the basi¢ neads of Iheir childrenlfamily. Sustalnlng Quallty SeNlce8 - BCWA have workgd hard to identify n8w ar8as of funding to support commissiongd and contracted service5, Furiding was secured for a longer period12yrsl resulting in a reduction irb the pressures lo seek funding by mid-year. W8 have maximised the opportunity by reviewing and remodelling services to ensure maximum efficiency and front line work. We Know that this may not be the pallern of funding in the future, as in 2024125, we face a number of commissions ending. The political landscap9 is likely to char)ge and thgrg will bg uncgrtainly towards the end of 2024125. Quality Is 8ssenlial lo the organisation. BCWA is assess8d exlemally by the Care Quality Commission (cac} for quality of servic8 and safeguarding. BCWA works within the framework of Inlernalional Slandards Organisation (ISO) relaled to health & safely environmental, business continuity. information security and quality standards. Whilst these are conditions of the modem day slavery support contract, BCWA continues lo adopt the standards across all services. Regular internal strategic and operational review enables all services lo remain relevant, vi¢lim focused and of high quality. Funderslcommissioners continu8 to express satisfaction with the standards 01 $8rvice deliv&ry, perfomiance as well as BCWA'S ability to be responsive, innovative and dynamic in its solutions for victims. Al all limes BCWA maintain a meaningful dialogue with clianis across all services, ensiiring that they remain central lo thè core values and influ8ncè th6 responsè. Servlce dètalls Communlt Serrflces- Domestlc Abusa BCWA continues to provide commissioned services for Sandwell, Dudley and Walsall local strategic partnerships and continues to provid9 domestic abuse support services. High risk viclirns continue to be supported by an Independent Dom9Stic Violence Advocate IIDVA) who provide imm8diale supporl 8nd minimise risk. linking with local Mulli Agancy Risk Assassmenl Confer8nce IMARACI. BCWA is integral lo thg Walsall Slrenglhening Familias model and tha Black Country Family Drug and Alcohol Court IFDACI. wher& highly vulnerabl8 childr@n are identified and support around the family is provided. Both specialist areas will be independently evaluated. High rSsk vlcllms continue to be supported by an independent domesti¢ abuse adviser IIDVAI. Volumes are increasing and fvrther support has been made available by the Wesl Midlands Office of the Police Crime Commissioner IOPCCI lo support this increase and strengthen the regional Multiagency Risk Assessment Conferen￿$ {MARACI that take place across the Black Country. BCWA is now embedded in local operational spaces. This has enabled victims lo access services easily and works with partners to advise on identification and referral to our services. BCWA continue to operate within the following structures.. Mulli agency Safeguarding Hubs {MASHI - many referrals are received through this route as partners share information. jointly risk Assess and provide a multi-agency response. GP Practices - delivering the national Identification and Referral lo Improve Safety (IRIS) programme,. a GP practice based model that provides training and educatlDn, clinical enquiry, care pathways and an enhan￿d referral pathway lo specialist domestic violence service5. Accident and Emergency Departments - Based within Russell's Hall Hospital Trust, specialist advocates identify victims presenting with multiple injuries as a result of abuse. BCVVA continue lo Iriangulate supporl for victims in both primary and acute services to reduce risk and increase Safely. Page 6 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Substance misuse commissionéd Sèfvices. Working particularly within th8 Sandw811 Blu& Light Project BCWA is part of tha multi-agency oparational group io ansure a joint idanlification and ownership of the highest impact clients, both as viclims and perpetrators of domestic abuse. Early help hubs. Working at a local level wilh é range of professionals supporting victims and working to keep Ihem safe. Schoo15 where children have been identified through police notifications. BCWA has worked wilh West Midlands Police, Walsall MBC and the Home Office to secure funds lo support children and young people. Stalkin ServiGg9 BCWA continues to develop its Stalking service. The learll uses a number of specialist tools. including the SRP (Stalking Risk Profile). SASH (Screening Assessment for Stalking and Harassmenll and Dr Jane Monckton-smilh's Hornicide Timeline lo profile perpetrators. This expertise is invaluable in our advocacy with agencies such as police and probation, lo help them manage offenders, addres8 Stalking behaviour directly and safeguard viclirn$. This service Gontinues to be supported by the offi￿ of the Wesl Midland5 Police and Crime Commissioner. The OPCC was successful in obtaining Hc)me Office funding for supporting perpetrators of abuse,. BCWA provides continued and ongoing support lo the victim The Early Awareness St21king Intervention I'EASI") pilot is in partnership with HMPPS Psychology Services Group and Wesl Midlands Police and focuses on improving how they identify and address stalking, The vision for Psychology Services Group and West Midlands Police is ID trial s cost- and time-efficient. targeted. and evidence-informed intervention for those who are known to have engaged in stalking, delivered al the earliest stage possible. Police training is being SUPPOrted by the Alice Ruggles Trust. The project is being evaluated by the University of Derby in their Faculties of Criminology and Forensics. The seNice remains a member of the National Stalking Consortium chaired by Suzy Lamplugh's Trust. BCWA provide updates of the positive work they continue to achieve locally and together plan for National Stalking Week Conference. During the y8ar th8 service was instrum8nlal in s8tting up the first stalking clinic for the region, strengthening th8 partnerships response valuing all contributions. This is an ambition realised since the start of the stalking service developed by 8CWA. The stalking clinic.. holds bespok8 multi-agency meelings where high risk referrals are assessed and wher8 the team look al stalking behaviours, th8 molivations behind them and the history and mental health ol the offendér identifies and sha￿$ organisalional learning and feeding b&k into the partnership for future training and development for partners discusses the profiles and risk ol stalkers with all parties sharing intelligence and information provides feedback and advice to offic8rs lo ensur8 robust manag8menl of stalking provldes referrals lo the independent stslking advocacy caseworker IISAC) and partner agencies for high risk stalking facilitates case discussions with the ISAC, Crown Prosecution Servico ICPSI and force stalking tactical lead, ensuring victim support and safeguarding dedicated legal advisor to support lh8 application of SPOS and advocating for Iheir use co-ordinates cross-border support to stalking case5, as required. Ra e, Sexual Vlolence and Abuse Servlces Every victim and survivor of sexual violence should be ablg to access a high-qualily, well managgd ISVA service, wherevor they are in the country, regardless of their age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or beliets; and whether or not they have chosen lo engag8 with the criminal justice process. Ensuring that all victims gel access to the valuable services of an ISVA remains constant. BCWA'S team of ISVAs (independent sexual violence advisers) who support both male and female survivors of rape and sexual abuse across the Black Counlry (Sandwell, Dudley, Wolverhamplon and Walsall) The Servi￿ includes specialist advocates who support child and adult victims of childhood sexual abuse. BCWA continue lo provide links from the regional Sexual Assault Referrals Centres ISARC) into local services and prDvides specialist Iherapeutic interventions. The Independent Sexual Violence Advisers {ISVA) continue to play a key role in helping survivor5 to acces5 and engage with the criminal justice system, both through support in court and with applications for Cnminal Injuries Compensation administration. Page 7 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 BCWA continues to play an activo rol8 in tho following partnerships: Reglonal Rape and Sexual Assault slrategic group. The vlslon of thls slrategy Is lo reduce and prevenl all forms of sexual assault and abuse. The Sexual Assault and Abuse ISAA) Board will work to ensure the West hlidlands offers a multi-agency. holistic and seamless service to victims of sexual assault and abuse.. to enhance the services provided to those affected through the criminal justice pathway. to provide therapeutic support to victims to help them rebuild their lives and to hold offenders to account for their behaviour. Voice of the Victim Forum this focuses discussions with agencies to discuss how to best ensur8 that victims remain engaged and their voices heard through the police investigation. It advocates for the conslslenl use of the vlclims code and improved communication be￿een victim and officer via the ISVA. VAWG Local Scrutiny and Involvement Panel (We81 Midland81- Thi8 meeting provides the opportunity for BCWA lo provide an insight into the landscape of support for victims of SV. This particular quarter focused on the impact of DHR'S and what we can leam from them from a CPS perspective. 8CWA is proud lo have achieved Lime Culture Quality standards for its Adult ISVA servi￿, Ask Marc and children's service, The Quality Standards set out the Standards for ISVA services across four domains: Leadership and Govemance, Access ond Engagement, Setvice Qelivery, and Outcomes and Evaluation. Specialist Children's independent Sexual violence advisors ICHISVAI continu8 to SUPPOrt children and young people who hav8 experienced rape and sexual violence. Our specialist children and young people's services support young victims of rape, sexual assault, child sexual exploitation ICSEI and domgslic violgnce. This area of work continues lo wC￿k as partnership8 gain a 9realer understanding of the impact of abuse on children. Working with both adult and child will strengthen relationships and develop resilience and confidence in young people as they progress into adulthood. Women's Justice 8CWA continues lo provide a specialist early-inlervention project, commissioned by the Office of the Wesl Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner via New Chance, where BCWA is a subcontractor of the main contract held by Changing Lives. These serviees both provides diversion from custody or from conviction for women in Sandwell, Dudley and Birmingham. Women access this servic8 following arrest 01 conviction and Ih8y are referred by polic8 or via probalion lo the service, Probation officeis are c0-l￿ated within the Women's Justice Cenlres providing a trauma informed space for women who have offended. The service offers praclical and emotional support aimed at helping Ihem to move forward in Iheir lives and avoid future offending. BCWA women's justice workers facilitate relationships with other agencies and rebuild confidence in women that service are Ihere to help. Reductions in other seNi¢es has meant that there Is an ir)creased pressure on ihis serNice. Women présenling wilh mental health challènges and PTSD are increasing. BCWA continues to encourage the co-location of professionals and, during the year, worked with probalion and s8xual h&allh professionals lo d8velop a Women's trauma Informed Health Care Pilot. The sexual health screening and general women's health services were brought into ihe centr8 to break down barriers ol accessing healthcare services, All women in BCWA service can access Ihe service. During the year, the partnership had been nominated and awarded the Kathy Biggar trophy wllh the Butler Trust. During the y8ar BCWA worked with the OPCC and partners to develop the Intensive Supervision Court IISC) in Birmingham Ipr8viously named th8 Problem Solving Courll. The ISC will b& for women sèrving community orders, for low lev81 offences in Birmingham, will be closely monitored by judges, as part of a new pilol scheme. 11 forms part of a new community sentencing approach, to tackle the root causes of offenders, behaviour help them change their ways and cut reoffending. Through the pilot launched in Birmingham Magi51rates' Court, when a woman is sentenced, the judge will order Ihem lo attend regular review meetings in BCWA womèn's justice cenlr8s, to chèck they are abiding by the raquiramenls of thèir community sentence. Woman will also have access lo specialist drug and alcohol treatment, lo halp them tackle any substanc& misus6, which could be driving their behaviour. At the same tim8, they will receive intensive supgrvision from Ihe Probation Sarvice, which could includa freguent and random drug testin9. The pilot, which forms port of the Government's 10-Year Drug Stralegy, and was made p05sible following the Government's Police, Crime. Sentencing and Courts (PCSCI Act 2022, with a stalulory instrument laid in Parliament to launch the 18-monlh pilol. Phil Bowen, Director for the Cenlre of Justice Innovation, said: The evidence suggests Ihat, by combining wraparound supervision with regular judicial oversight which holds people and servi￿$ to accpunt. we can make a material difference lo offending. These pilots allow us lo lest the effectiveness of these approaches in order lo infami decisions on any potential wider rDII-ouI." Page 8 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Accommodatlon and Outreach Servlce Idomesllc abuse and modern day slavery vlctlms care contract) BCWA contlnue lo provlde a safe accommodallon for vlcllms of vlolence and abuse followlng the success of Ihe commlsslon the previous year. New systems and procedures were pul in place against the new GommissK)n. Demand for services remain high, with demand always outstripping need. Families continue lo experience financial hardship. The refuge team has buill good relationships with the Local Welfare Provision, and a range of charities e.g. The Bultle Trust, to apply for individual grants for families who need help including when they leave and establish their own home. BCWA also raise funds for its appeal, "Make a house a home" helping families with basics and e5senlials wheii (hey move oul such as hov5ehold goods, floorin9. school supplies and toys for individual children. This has been particularly 5UPPOrtive of our clients. Parents have expressed their thanks and gratitude for this additional support. BCWA also aim to make the stay in refuge as supportive. bul also. as fun as possible. Supported by many corporate and individual donors, they support positive activitie8 for the women and Ghildren, such a8 fun days out to the 3ea8ide and cultural events such 88 Diwali. Eid and Christmas. BCWA is committed to identrfying additional unlts of accommodation lo meel needs and demand. Supporting children livlng wilhin the Safe accommodation provision is crucial. Counselling and support for children and young people has been vital. BCWA continue to receive generouo gifts and donations lo support women and children living in sofe accommodation. with one donor covering the cost of all school uniforms, their Christmas dinner and funds to contribute to rent costs, 8CWA continue lo provide units of accommodation and outreach servlces spannlng the West Midlands foi victims of Modern Day Slavery IMDSI in partnership with the Salvation Army, who hold the national contract with the Home Office. Each year sees an increase in victims accessing the service, d8mon8trating greater awareness and understanding of modern slavery the extent of il within our communities. Risks are very high for the viclims. as often the traffickers will make significant attempts to find them. Therefore, security needs lo be high for both victims and staff providing this vital service. The service works with a range of stakeholders lo gather intelligenc8 on locations and vulnerabilities where exploitation operates and lakes an active part in the media, highlighting the plight of victims. BCWA also contributes to national discussions. legislative changes and acts as expert corksullants lo the West Midlands Modern Slavery Strategy and West Midlands Police Mulli Aoency Policy and Procedures. We represent survivors on the West Midlands Anti-slavery Network, Human Trafficking Advisory Foundation Forum, and PAN We51 Midlands Multi-Agency Group. BCWA continues lo work wilhin local strategic partnerships as they increase their awareness of modern slavery and acknowledgè the Mtal role that they play in identifying and coordinating rescue. Leg81 restrictions on economic activity may be inereasing risks of exploilalion in other ¢onlexls. Concems have been raised for sex workers as nighlclubs close, and sex work is pushed underground, making workers increasingly vulnerable lo trafficking. Counsellin and Thera eutic Services Counselling and specialist therapeutic interventions underpin the support services and are an essential component of a holistic approach to addressing trauma. The seNi¢e offer continues to Combine bolh face lo face and the use of lechnology lo counsel viclims. Buslness develo ment and flnanco Strategic and partnership working remains a vital part of our work. The corporate centre continues to strengthen following invastmenl into kay positions in financa, human r6sourcas, business and operational dev6lopm6nl and communications. BCWA produc8 regular newsletters, use social m6dia. and publish articles in the national press on related issues lo highlight th8 plight of viclims of abuse and the impact of nalional policy on victims, livas. Quall Learnln and Enter rlse BCWA have robust internal audit functions auditing the standards and quality of service against national slandards. Reports, analysis and trends for strategic partnerships, fJnders and commissioners are available on a regular basis. outlining the performance of the service against specificalionlcommission. Training and development of employees, all increased in the last 12 months and employees recognise the impact of training on t1￿1r practi￿. BCVVA has continued with many of the online leaming opportunities established during COVID and has since developed a WorkfDice development team to focus on the continual professional developmenl of all ils workforce, matthing national standards against practice. Page 9 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Employe8s ar8 d8v@loped Ihrough an organisational Iraining plan and encouraged to pursu8 external qualificalions as part of thèir Professional Davelopment Plan IPDPI. This will ba furthgr slrengthenad as we move lowards Employmenl Comp81ency Frameworks to further develop our employee skills and talents. The organisation continues to support the Home Office standards for Independent domestic violence and sexual Violen￿ advocacy services, as defined by SafeLives, Lime Culture, Women's Aid Federalion of England and Wales, Respect and the Care Quallly Commlsslon. BCWA remains an organisalion recognised for its expertise in both policy and practice. The senior management team have been involved in the development of national policy, national accredited training courses and the continuing professional development of heallh and other professionals. During 2023124 BCWA remained lead trainers within local strategic partners providing expertise on interpersonal violence, abvse and exploitalion. The organisation continues lo receive gifts in kind. including toys, food and loilelries from a variety of women's organisallons, religious groups, and individuals and other organisations, as well as hours of volunteer time amounting to over 300 hrs. FINANCIAL REVIEW Our income increased to £10.016.725 from £8,600,515, an increase of 16 %. whilst expenditure rose from £7.065,286 to £8,223,119. The increased income is a reflection of the increase in funds lo support the direct service delivery. The organisalion continues to realise its longer term plan lo diversify funds away from the statutory funding and has been able to attract new funding streams to support existing services and take on new projects. Expenses and overheads have been tightly controlled and new contracts reflect the savings shown. The increase in expenditure is du8 lo a response to service increase, where operational and staff costs increased in line with our provision of extra Services. The Slalement of FlnancSal aclSvities shows an increase in funds of £1,793,6(￿. Our reserves now sland at £8,518,663 of which £1,722,813 is restricted and £6,795,850 is unrestricted. The balanc8 of unre8trict&d re88rves includes £3,686,059 which is designated to meet future commitments. Therefore the balance of free reseryes is £3,109,791 of which £1.799.746 relates lo fixed assets, Reserves Pollcy The Board of Trustees has examined the charity's Tequirements for reserves in light of the main risks lo the organisation. The Board of Trustees has agreed lo support a 3-year strategy that includes.. Strategic Development Fund - where the organisation undertakes research and development to infom future service provision and secure addilional funds for longer temi service delivery costs of £383,160. Service Conlinuily Fund where Ihe organisalion maintains cosls for closure as well as 6 months. running costs 01 £1,135,414. Property Conlingency Fund - where Ihe organisalion has to ensure SLrfficient funds lo mainlain th8 properties lo a high slandard, ensure roulin8 r8pairs and mainl8nanc8 and b8 prepar8d in the ev8nt of major structural damage- £265,000. Redundancy Reserve - where the organisalion will pay the redundancy over the capped limit to long term employèes - £155,500. Capilal R8serve - where the organisation will invest in property lo meet the demand of the services - £1.746,985. Page10 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 FUTURE PLANS Future plans include.. Development of regional working opportunities for joint working. Implementatior) of new policies ensuring thal the systems are fil for purpose. are high quality and meet nationally recognised quality Standards. Development and implementation of a new case management system. Development of a sliale9ic inveslmenl plaii for iiicreasin9 BCWA asseis. Seeking opportunities for fijnding new oppDrtunities. Preparing services for future tendering. Contribute to strategic and operational plans with a range of partners to create a "whole systems approach. to supporting victims wherever they present ensuring that viclims remain supported, risks identified and protected. Continue lo influence strategy at a local. regional and national level. Reviewing services.. evaluating cost effectiveness. efficiency and operational delivery. Reviewing governance arrangements and slrenglhening corporate services meeting the needs of a growing organisation. Further development of the troining and educational programmes and developments, working within locol educational partnership5 and academic inslilutions. Establishing irnproved solutions to Victims of violence and abuse that have little or no acc8SS to public ftinds and ensure that this issue remains high on the strategic agenda. Developing a'women's Centre" approach, widening the opportunities for women. Exploring the implementation of gendered spaces in line with national standards. 10. 12. 13. STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT This is a company limited by guarantee and its operations include.. The provision of supported accommodation for individuals leaving violence, abuse arKI exploitation. Outreach and resettlement support services for children, young people and women moving back into the community after leaving refuge andlor within a safe home. The provision of a community-based support and advocacy service for victims of abuse in and out ol the Criminal justice system. Community engagementlinvolvemenl and p8er support for victims of violence and abus8. Delivery ol training and awareness raising to both slalul(Yy and non-slalulory agencies. work with schools, colleges and other educational eslablishmenls outlining the effect￿lmpaCt of abuse, explaining models of interventions. Working in partnership both al a str8legic and operational level with the slalulory and voluntary se¢lor to develop a co-ordinated response to tackling domestic abuse. Governing Document The organisalion is a charitable company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Vvales, incorporated in 1993 and registered as a charity in 1994. The company was established under a Memorandum of Association which established the objectives and powers of the charitable company and is governed und8r ils Articles of Association. In the ev8nt ol the company being wound up members ar8 required lo contribute an amount not 8xce8ding £1.00. Recrultment and AppoSntment of Management Commlttee Tha Diraclors of tha Company ara also Charity Trusta8s for Ihe purpose of charily law and undar tha Articlas are known as the membèrs of the Managemenl Committae. Undar Iha requirem6nls of the Memorandum and Articles of Associalion, lh6 members of the management committee musl ba re-glecled gach year. The Management Committee, where p05sible, seeks to ensure thal the needs of viclims of abuse whether adults, children or young people are appropriately reflected though Ihe diversity of the Trustee body. To enhance the potenlial pool of Trustees, promotions take place to attracl skilled individuals from all sectors lo Gontribule their skill, kno￿edge and commitment. This is regularly discussed at Board meetings to ensure good representation. Page11 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Truslee Indu¢tlon and tralnlng Truslees are famlllar wlth the operatlonal work of the charlty and are supported by the CEO Ihrough a Trustee Informallon pack and the q)portunity to visit the various services, as part of an optional induction. Rlsk management Tlie Board of Truslees has condutted a review of the majoi risk5 to which the charity 15 exposed and Ihis IS outliiied in its Slialegl Plan. A risk management policy has been developed with supporting documents of risk appetite and risk register and are updated annually lo assess the risks lo services and funds and any other changes that the charily faces. The internal governance framework enables risk to be idpntified at all levels and provides an open. transparent and inclusive culture of information exchange throughout the organisation. All employees have the opportunity to share and express their thoughts and vipws regarding risk. Risk assessments are maintained and updated regularly across all service areas and summarised within the Executive team discussions who hold and share risk on a day to day basis. Risk is shared within the subcommittee reporting structures with trustees. 8CWA consider the organisation faces the following risks: Political uncertainty - The recent general election may cause some uncertainty for future funding. Whilst the Violence 8gainst Women and Girls agenda remains highly political, it is difficult to assess the direction each political party will take. Financial and economic factors - Rising or stagnating inflation and the ongolng risk of potential recession could see charitable donations reduce. 8CWA will need lo closely monitor funding sources as there will b8 greater competition for donations. Reduction in statutory sector funding - Local government continue to experien￿ financial pressures. With many taking services "in-house" this may result in a reduction in future commissions. BCWA 8r8 actively involved in Iccal strategic needs assessments that will influence and shape future commissions. Increasing costs - inflation is likely to increase and continue to drive up operating cost5. BCVVA will continue to analyse costs to ensure that all equipment, resources and expenses are good value for money. Public health issu8s . COVID, influenza and other public health concems could further impact charity operations by sickness absence. client access lo onsite services, and may spread quickly affecting both staff and clients 8ndlor events planned e.g. in reluge. BCWA will continue to monitor sickness absence, site health issues and client contacllDNA's. BCWA will aim lo reduce risk in events held by considering the time cf year and locations and build in some flexibility in the planning stages. Natural disasters Climale change is having a glob81 effecl on seasons, property and agencies response. As 8 result, charitable funds may be diverted lor disaster reli8f. In addilion BCVVA will monitor the Property Manag8m8nl Plan lo assess whether damag8 is being caused lo BCWA property and bring planned maintenance brought fomard. Cybersecurity threats - BCWA are aware Ihal these are increasing and have put measures in place lo increase the security of the IT inlraslructurè. In addition BCVVA maintain the Cyber essèntials accredilalion and works with Hublel ,Ihe IT provider, lo minimise risk. Regular training and IT reports inform strategy and aclion. Recruitment and retention There have been many challenges to recruit compolent employees and subsequently relain competent skilled employees. The market is fasl changing and highly compelilive. BCWA regularly reviews and benchmarks against ils industry comparators and airns lo be an employer of choice. not exclusively for its salaries, but for welfare, social responsibility and opportunily. Succ8ssion planning and 8mployea d8velopmanl is crucial. Compliancg and standards BCWA provide services linked lo national contracting that requires mora stringant regulatory requirements. BCWA is working to maintain high level standards such as ISO'S, professional standards and accreditations whilst rem8ining compliant and up to date with charity and company law. Financial procedures are adhered to and regularly reviewed with regard lo aulhorisalion of Iransactions for all project expenditure. Reputational risks - BCWA have maintained an ex￿lIent track record of service provision and high quality staff. However, il acknDwledges that any controversy or scandal could damage its reputation and impact supporter trust. This in lurn may affect future contracting. funding, partnerships and donations. BCWA emphasise across the organisation the responsibility each and every employee has in maintaining and upholding the reputaliDn and values. All contracted services work within relevant contractual timescales, quality standards and are monitored externally on a quarterly basis and internally on a monthly basis, in accordance with the organisation's performance framework. This ensures a consistent quality of Servi￿ for all operational aspects of servI￿s. Page12 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 All Service Level Agreemants ISLAS) have agrae(J targets and outcomos and are parformanca monitored on a quartarly basis. Servicos aim to work within nationally recognised slandards of practice and seek external accreditation, e.g. Women's Aid Federation of England and Wales, Safe Lives, The Survivors Trusl, Rape Crisis England and Wales and the British Association of Counsellors and Psychotheraplsts {BACPI. All grantslfLJndslcontracts awarded are for specific time periods and have project plans and milestones to ensure work is monitored and meeting required standards. Regular contact with commissioners ensures that the work is on target and achieving ils expected outcomes. Board meetings take plac8 every 8 weeks as part of an annual plan supported by a sub-committee structure that enables ongoing reportlng and risk management across the organisation. Org•ni8ationJl StruGtur• Black Country Women's Aid has a Management CommilteelBoard 015 members who meet as a full Board every 8 weeks. Th8 meeting dates are set as part of an annual calendar and the Annual General Meeting is scheduled in advance. In addition there are sub committees that feed into the moin Board. These include., Finance Sub Committee Quality Sub Committee Workforce Development Sub Committ88 Faclllties Management Sub Committee Each Committee has its own Terms of Reference and all work to achieve the main objectives of the organisation, Each meeting is organised to discuss new policies, procedures, issues identified and quality standards. Each subcommittee feeds into the main board for final discussion and ratification. During the year, many of the meeting5 have been held via the Microsoft Teams plalform. This has proven an effeLlive ways lo hold business meetings and as the organisation works toward new models of working such as hybrid working. will look towards this being included in its planning. All minutes and decision making is circulated and presented to the full board for recommendation, further discussion and final approval. Wher8 necessary, E-reports are provided and 8xtraordinary m8etings are called. Pap8rs are r8POrted to th8 next Board meeting for full ralific8lion. Members come from a variely of related professional backgrounds atKI are responsible for the strategic direction and policy of the Charity. A skills audit lakes place ol Board members lo ensure that Ihe organis8tion is equippe¢J with Ihe right skills lo reach ils full polenlial, Where practicable, the Trustees undertake an annual business planning event lo discuss organisational progress, strategic direclion and agr8e future projections.co-opled members have no voling righls but ar8 consider8d an important part of the discussion and debate. The Trustees delegate responsibility to the Chief EKeculive who also acts as Company Secretary. In addition, the Chief Executive holds the lead responsibility for wlicy and performance, financial management, employèè recruitment and management, as well as operational service d81ivery. The Chief Executive delegates tasks lo the senior managem8nt t8am who report back on a regular basis. The Chief Executive,, working Ivith her tsam of Directors, managers and corporate colleagues, tskes the lead for developing employees, apprentices and volunteers, ensuring Ihat their learning experience is translated into operational practice in line with good practice. Senlor Management Structure BCWA is led by a senior management structure compromising of the Chief Ex8CUtive Officer, Deputy Chief Executivel Director of Finan￿, Director of Community Services, Inlerim Director of Accommodation ServiGes and Executive Officer. They are supported by specialist managers assigned to each directorate. The lotal salaries of the Management team were £346.314. This represents 7 % of the total salary cost to the organisation. The senior management remuneration approach Is contained within Pay Policy located within the Financial Regulations - this applies lo all positions within the organisation. Page13 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Report of the Trustees for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 Related Partles The work of the organisation sits within a number of strategic frameworks both locally. regionally and nationally. The Chief Executive. Directors and managers play a significant role across all areas of business including developing and influencing strategy, continuous improvement of services and developing new opportunities lo support victims, ensuring financial plans are sustsinable and guaranteeing that the victim's voice remains at the centre of all decision making. STATEMENT OF TRUSTEES. RESPONSIBILITIES The trustees Iwho are also the directors of Black Country Women's Aid for the purposes of company law) are responsible for preparing the Report of the Trustees and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Company1aw requires the trustees to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a true and fair view of the slate of affairs of the charitable company and of the incoming resources and application of resources, including the income and expenditure, of the charitable company for that period. In preparing those financial statements, the trustees are required to select suitable occounling policies and then apply them consistently., observe the methods and principles in the Charity SORP., make judgements and estimates that are reasonable and prudent., prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless It Ss inappropriate lo presume that the charitable company will continue in business. The trustees are responsible for keeping proper accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the charitable company and to enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006, They are also responsible for safeguarding the assets of th8 charitable company and hence for taking r8asonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. In so far as the trustees are aware: there is no relevant audit information of which the charitable company's auditors are unaware., and the trustees have taken all steps that Ih8y ought to have tak8n to mak8 Iherns81v8s aware of any r818vant audit information and lo establish that the audilors are aware of Ihal infDrmalion. AUDITORS The audilors, TAG Assurance Seryices Limiled, will be proposed for rtrappointment at the forthcoming Annual General Meeting. This report has been pr8pared in accordance with th8 speual provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Ad 2006 relating lo small companies. Approved by order ofthe board of trustees on 20 December 2024 and signed on its behalf by,, Karen Elizabelh Dowman - Trustee Page 14 Report of the Independent Audltors to the Members of Black Couniry Women's Ald Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Black Country Women's Aid (Ihe 'charitable company,) for the year ended 31 March 2024 which comprise the Stalem8nt af Financial Activities, the Balanc£ Sheet, the Cash Flow Slalemenl and notes lo th8 financial slalamer)Is. including a summary of significant accounting policies. Tha financial raporting framework that has baen applied in Ihair preparation is applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Gonerally Accopled Accounting Practice). In our opinion the financial statements.. give a true and fair view of the state of the charitable company's affairs as al 31 March 2024 and of ils incoming resources and application of resources, including its income ané expendilure, for the year then ended; have been properly prepared in accordance with United Kingdom Generally A¢￿pIe￿ Accounting Practice., and have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Conipanies Act 2006. Basis for opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing {UKI IISAS {UKI) and applicable law Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditors, responsibilities for the audit of the financial slalements section of our report. We are independent of the charitsble company in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, including the FRC'S Ethical Standard, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate lo provide a basis for our opinion. Conclusions relating to going concern In auditing the financial statements. we have concluded that the trustees, use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial slalements is appropriate. Based on the work we have performed, we have not idenllfied any material uncertainlies rela￿ng lo events or conditlons that, individually or collectively, may cast 8ignificanl doubt on the charitabl@ company's ability lo continu8 a8 a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements are aulhorised for issue. Our responsibilit18s and the reswnsibilities of the trustees with resp8Ct to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report. Other information The trustees are responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the inlormation included in the Annual Report, other than the financial sialemenls and our Report of the Independer)l Auditors thereon. Our opinion on the financial s181ements does not cover the other information and. except lo the exlenl otherwise explicitly staled in our report, we do nol express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is lo read the olher information and, in doing so, Consider whelher the other information is materially inconglstenl with the financial statements or our knowledge oblained In the audit or otherwise appears lo be materially misslaled. If we idenlify such material inconsistencies or apparent material misslatements, we ar8 required lo determine whether this gives nse lo a material misslalemenl in the financial slalem8nls themselves. 11, based on th8 work we have performed, we conclude thal there is a material misstatement of this olher infomialion, we are required to report thal fa¢l. We have nothing to report In this regard. Oplnlons on other matlers prescrlbed by the Companles Act 2006 In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course ol the audit: the informalion given in the Report of th8 Trustees for th8 financial y8ar lor which th8 financial slalem8nts are prepared is consistent with the financial statements; and the Report of the Tru51ees has been prepared in accordanGg With applicable legal requirernents. Matters on whlch we are requlred to report by exceptlon In tha light of Ihe knowladge and undarstanding of the charilabla company and its environmgnt obtained in tho course of the audit, we have not identified material misslalements in the Report of the Trust8es. We have nothing lo report in respeGI of the following matters where the Companies Act 2006 requires us to report to you If, in our opinion.. adequate accounting records have not been kept or returns adequale for our audit have not been received from branches nol visited by us; or the financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or certain disclosures of trustees, remuneration specified by law are not made-, or we have nol received all the information and explanations we require far our audit,. or the trustees were not entitled lo lake advanlage of the small companies exemption from the requiremenl lo prepare a Strategic Report or in preparing the Report of the Trustees. Page15 Report of the Independent Audltors to the Members of Black Couniry Women's Ald Responsibililies of trustees As explained more fully in lh6 Statemènt of Trustees, Responsibilities. Iha trus16ès {who are also the dir&clors of th8 charitabl company for thg purposes of company lawl are rasponsible for the preparation of the financial s1alemenls and for being salisfiad that Ihey give a true and fair view, and for such inlemal control as tho trustees determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial ststements that are free from material misststement, whether due to fraud or error. In preparing the financial statements, the trustees are responsible for assessing the charitable company's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing. as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis Df accounting unless the trustees either intend to liquidate the charitable company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but lo do so. Our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misslalement, whether due to fraud or error. and lo issue a Report of the Independent Auditors that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audii conducted in accc)rdance with ISAS (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when il exists. Misslalements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggre9ate. they could reason8bly be expected lo influence the economic decisions of users token on the basis of these financial statements. The extent to whlch our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including fraud is detalled below.. We gained on understonding of the legal ond regulatory frameworks within which the charitable company is required to operate and focussed on those that have a direct effect on the detemiination of material amounts and disclosures within the financial statements - primarily these were the Companies Act 2006, the Charities Act 2011 and the Charities SORP IFRS 1021, We assessed compliance with these laws and regulations as part of our audit procedures in respect of related items within the financial statements. Our audit procedures in thi8 ragard were limited lo 8nquiry of Trustees and other manag8ment and inspection of any regulatory and legal correspondence, if any. We identified items within the financial slalements at greatest risk of a material impact from irregularities, including fraud, which were considered lo be the recognition of grant income and overriding of controls by management, We undertook audit procedure5 to respond lo these risks, including enquiries of management, sample testing on the posling of journals, review of the basis of accounting estimates and a review of the liming of recognition of grant income. Due to the inherent limitations of an 8udit, there is 8 risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements within the financial statements despit8 properly planning and performing our audit in liné with auditing standards. This could be due to a number of factors such as collusion, fDruery. inlenlion81 omissions, misrepresentations or the over-ride of controls. We point oul Ihal we are not responsible for preventing non-compliance and cannot be expected to detect noTrcompliance with all laws and regulations. A further descripiion of our responsibilities for Ihe audit of the financial stalemenls is located on Ihe Financial Reporting Council's website al www.frc.org.uklaudilorsresponsibililies. This descripiion forms part of our Report of the Independent Auditors. Use of our report This report is made solely to Ihe charitable company's members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that we might stale to the charitable company's members those matters wo ar8 required lo stale lo them in an auditors, roport and for no other purposa. To the fullost oxtenl pormilled by law, w8 do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the charitable company and the charitable company's members as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed. Shaun Philpott (Senior Statulory Auditor) for and on behalf of TAG Assurance Services Limited Chartered Accountants and Registered Auditors 8 Pendeford Place Pendeford Business Park Wolverhampton Wesl Midland5 WV9 SHO 20 December 2024 Page16 Black Couniry Women's Ald Statement of Flnanclal Actlvltles Ilncorporating an Income and Expenditure Accounl) for Ihe Year Ended 31 March 2024 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Notes INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 203.008 169,297 372.305 155,357 Charitable activities Refuge ba¥ed supporl Communily based support Modern day slavery 1,014,017 2,267,576 3,940,124 10,000 2,347,376 1,024,017 4,614,952 3,940,124 993,750 3,870,432 3,464,517 Other trading aclivilies Total 65 326 7,490,051 116459 8,600,515 2,526,674 10,016,725 EXPENDITURE ON Charltable actlvltles Refuge based support Communily based support Modern day slavery Total 1.240.338 2.571,787 2,369,482 6,181,607 24,336 2,000,055 17,121 2,041,512 1,264,674 4,571,842 2,386,603 8,223,119 1.202,657 3,823,652 2 038,977 7,065,286 NET INCOME 1,308,444 41,744 1,266,700 485,162 41,744 526,906 1,793,606 1,535,229 Transfers between funds Net movement in funds 17 1,793.606 1,535,229 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 5,529,150 1,195,907 6,725,057 5,189,828 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 6 795 850 1 722813 8 518 663 6 725 057 The notes form part of these financial statements Page17 Black Couniry Women's Ald (Reglstered number: 02791788) Balance Sheet 31 March 2024 31.3.24 31.3.23 Notes FIXED ASSETS Tangible assets 12 2,779,653 2,411,207 CURRENT ASSETS Debtors Cash al bank and in hand 13 2,311,407 3 809 834 6,121,241 1,838,406 2,962,867 4,801.273 CREDITORS Amounts falling due within one year 14 1382,2311 (487,4231 NET CURRENT ASSETS 5,739,010 4,313,850 TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES 8,518,663 6,725,057 NET ASSETS FUNDS Unrestrlcted funds Reslricled funds TOTAL FUNDS 8 518 663 6 725.057 17 6,795,850 1,722,813 8 518 663 5,529,150 1.195.907 6 725 057 These financial statemen15 have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies r8gime. The financial slat8ments w@re approved by th8 Board of Trustees and authori88d for issue on 20 December 2024 and w8r8 sign8d on ils behalf by.. Kareli Elizabeth Dowmaii Tiuslee The notes form part of these financial statements Page18 Black Couniry Women's Ald Cash Flow Statement for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 31.3.24 31.3.23 Nolas Cash flows from operatlng actlvltles Cash generated from operations Net cash provided by operating activities 1 282 492 1.282.492 2115487 2115487 Cash flows from Invesllng acllvltles Purchase of tangible fixed assets Net cash used In Invastlng actlvltlas 435 525) 435 525) 1.246,6921 1 246 6921 Change In cash and cash equlvalents In the reporting period Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period Cash and cash equivalents at tho end of the reportlng perlod 846,967 868,795 2,962,867 2.094,072 3.809.834 2.962.867 The notes form part of these financial statements Page19 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Cash Flow Statement for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 31_3_24 31.3_23 Net Income for the reportlng perlod las per the Ststement of Flnan¢lal Actlvltiesl Adjustments for: Depreciation charges {Increaselldecrease in debtors {Decreasellincrease in creditors Net cash provlded by operatlons 1,793,606 1,535,229 67,079 1473,D011 105 1921 1282 492 39.508 249.670 291,080 2115487 ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS Ai 1.4.23 Cash flow At 31.3.24 Net cash Cash at bank and in hand 2 962 867 2 962 867 2 962 t367 846 967 846,967 846 907 3,809,834 3 809 834 3 809 834 Tolal The notes form part of these financial statements Page 20 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES Basls of preparlng the Ilnanclal statements The financial slatements of the charitable company, which is a public benefit entity under FRS 102, have been prepared in accordance wilh the Charllles SORP (FRS 1021 'Accountlng and Reporting by Charllles.. Stslement of Recommended Practice applicable to Gharities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland IFRS 1021 {effeclive 1 January 2019),, Financial Reporting Standard 102 'The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland, and the Companies Act 2006. The financial stalernents have been prepared under the historical cost convention. Income All income 15 recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charlty has entillemenl to the funds. It Ss probable that th8 income will be r￿e1Ved and the amc>unl can be measured reliably. Charitsbl• 8¢tiviti•g Charitable activities are as follows.. Refuge based support Community based support Modern slavery Equipment grants Resources oxpended staff o)sts and overhead expense5 are allocated to activities on the basis of staff time spent on those actlvities. Value added tax is not recoverable by the charity and as such is included in the relevanl costs in the Slalement of Financial Activities. Charitable aclivit18s comprises of thos8 Costs incurr8d by th8 charity in the d8liv8ry of its activities and services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs that can be allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an indirect nature necessary to support them. Governance costs include those costs associated with meeting the constitutional and statutory requirements of the charity and include th8 audit f8es and costs linked lo th8 Strat8gic managem8nl of the charity, Tangible fixed assets Depreciation is provided al the following annual rates in order lo write off each 8sset over ils eslimated useful life. Freehold property Fixtures and fillings 4'A on cost 33010 on cosl Taxatlon As a charlty, Black Country Women's Ald Is exempt from lax on Income and gains falllng withln sécllon 466 10 493 of the Corporation Tax Acl 2010 to the extent that these are applicable to its charitable objects. No lax charges have arisen in the charity. Fund accountlng UnreslriGted funds are donation5 and other income received or generated for the objects of Ihe charity wilhoul specified purposes and are available as ganeral funds. Restricted funds can only be usod for particular restriclad purwsas within tha objects of lh9 charity. Rastriclions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular r8Strictod purposos. Expenditure which meets these criteria is idcnlified to the fund, together wilh a fair allocation of managernenl and support costs. Designated funds are unrestricled funds earmarked by the Trustees for particular purposes. Further explanation of the nature and purpose of each fund is included in the notes to the financial slatemenls. Donated goods and services Donated goods and services are included at the value to the charily where this can be quantified. The value of services provided by general volunteers has not been included in these accounts. Pension costs and other post-retirement benefits The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to Ihe charilable company's pension scheme are charged to the Slalement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate. Page 21 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 ACCOUNTING POLICIES . contlnued Penslon costs and other post-retlremenl beneflts Hlre purchase and leaslng commllments Assets obtained under hire purchase conliacts or finance leases are capitalised in the balance sheet. Those held under hire purchase contracts are d&precialed over their estimated useful lives. Those held under finance leases are depreciated over their estimated useful lives or the lease term whichever is shorter. Rentals paid under operating leases are charged to the statement of financial activity on a straight line basis over the perlod of the lease. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Donations 372 305 155357 OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Management and training fees 116459 INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Activity Refuge based support Refuge based support Community based support Modern day slavery Grants and contracts Accommodation charges Gran15 and contracts Griinls and contracts 468,331 555,686 4,614,952 3,940,124 9 579 093 488,960 524,790 3,870,432 3,464,517 8 328 699 Grants received, included in the above, are as follows.. 31.3.24 31.3.23 Refug8: Sandwell MBC . Supporting People Refuge: SandwEII MBC . DCLG Community.. Sandwell MBC- Specialist DV and SV Support Community.. Sandwell MBC- Safer Sandwell Partnership Community.. Dudley MBC - DA Support Service Community.. Walsall MBC - DVI Children Comrnunity.. Wesl Midlands Police and Clime Comm15sioner Cornrnunity.. Wesl Midland5 Police and Crime Comm15sioner- DVPP Community.. Wesl Midlands Police and Crlme Commissioner- New Chance Community.. Wesl Midlands PoliLe Community.. Changing Lives- Fernale se￿￿e Users Community.. Wolverhampton City Council - Our Future Community.. Ministry of Justice - Rape and SA Support Fund Community.. Ministry of Justice - Female Offenders Community.. Home Office Ceanex Comrnunity.. NHS IRIS Combined Authority Comrnunily.. SCVO Community.. RSVP Community ." Big Lollery Community Fund Modem Day Slavery. Salvation Army 458.331 10,DOO 681,928 40,000 349,021 602,DOO 1,365,291 266,525 45,304 15,OCIO 326,050 75,DOO 331,957 98,208 35,483 223,274 64,542 8.D43 87,326 3,940,124 9 023 407 331.399 50,000 601,767 40.000 283,878 621.750 1.268.206 44,574 209,926 149.718 413,432 189,810 131,583 3,349 3.464.517 7 803 909 Page 22 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS Dirgct Costs {soe note 61 Support costs (see nole 7} Totals Refuge based support Community based support Modern day slavery 1,112,091 3.580.049 1,988.023 6880 163 152,583 991.793 398,580 1542 956 1,264,674 4,571,842 2,386,603 8223119 DIRECT COSTS OF CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES 31.3.24 31.3.23 Staff costs Activity costs Office costs Property costs 5,296,334 334.080 265,847 784102 6680163 4.664,755 272,950 157,515 875.695 5970915 SUPPORT COSTS Offlce costs Propety costs Depreciation Refug& based support Community based support Modern day slavery 78,328 509,135 195 821 18,704 17.121 46,759 187037 Staff costs, travel elc Goveriiaii¢e costs Totals Refug8 based support Community based support Modern day slavery 54.471 354,064 136,179 544 714 1,080 7.020 2.700 152,583 991,793 398,580 1 542 956 Activity Depreciation Office costs Property Costs Staff costs, travel etc Governance costs Basis of allocation Usage Usage Usage Usage Usage Page 23 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 SUPPORT COSTS. contlnued Support costs, included in Ihe above, are as follows.. 31.3.24 31.3.23 Refuge based support Community based support Modem day slavery Total adivities Tolal activities Depreciation of tangible fixed assets Office cosls Property costs Staff costs & Iravel etc Auditors, remuneration 17.121 195.821 46.759 136,179 2.700 398 580 17,121 783,284 187,037 544,714 10,800 1542 956 17.121 523.588 170.459 372,823 10.380 1094 371 78,328 18.704 54,471 1.080 152 583 509,135 121,574 354,064 7,020 991 793 NET INCOMEI(EXPENDITURE) Net incomellexpenditurel is stated after chargingl(crediting)'. 31.3.24 31.3.23 Auditors, remuneration Depreciation - owned assets 10,800 10.380 TRUSTEE8' REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS There were no trustees, remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 31 March 2024 nor for the year ended 31 March 2023. Trustees, expenses There wer8 no trust8es' expenses paid for the y8ar ended 31 March 2024 nor for the year 8nd8d 31 March 2023. 10. STAFF COSTS 2D24 2023 Wages and salaries Social security Pension 4,748,027 423,419 191,177 5 362 623 4,158,342 385,T08 166,749 4 710799 Thg average monthly number of employees during the ygar was as follows.. 31.3.24 174 23 197 31.3.23 149 23 172 Direct charitable work Administration The number of employees whose employee benefits lexcluding employer pension costs) exceeded £60,000 was.. 31.3.24 31.3.23 £70,001- £80,000 £90,001- £100.000 Page 24 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 10. STAFF COSTS- contlnued Black Country Women's Aid considers its key managemenl personnel to be Ihe Chief Executive OffI￿r employment benefits ofthe key management personnel were £95,997 (2023.. £91,672). The lotal The company operates a Group Personal Pension Plan to which Ihe charitable company contribLrtes 5/0 and employees contribute 3 % . 11. COMPARATIVES FOR THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Total funds INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM Donations and legacies 155,357 155,357 Charitsbla activities Refugp ba8ed support Community based support Modern day slavery 943,750 1,6g2.512 3,464,517 50,000 2,177,920 993,750 3,870,432 3,464,517 Other trading activities Tolal 67,419 6,323,555 49,040 2,276,960 116,459 8,600,515 EXPENDITURE ON Charllable actlvltles Refug8 based support Community based support Modern day slavery Total 1,149,645 1,492,963 2 021788 4,664,396 53.012 2,330,689 1,202,657 3,823,652 2 038 977 7,065,286 2,400,890 NET INCOMEI{EXPENDITURE) Translers between funds Net movemént in funds 1,659,159 1,599 1,657,560 {123,9301 1,599 {122.3311 1,535,229 1,535,229 RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS Total funds brought forward 3,871,590 1,318,238 5,189,828 TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD 5529 150 1 195907 6 725 057 Page 25 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 12. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS Fixtures and fittings Freehold property Totals COST At 1 April 2023 Additions At 31 March 2024 DEPRECIATION At 1 April 2023 Charge for year At 31 March 2024 NET BOOK VALUE Al 31 March 2024 Al 31 March 2023 2.491.466 435,525 2.926.991 123.204 2,614,670 435,525 3 050,195 123 204 132.009 49.829 181.838 71,454 203,463 270,542 2745153 2 359 457 2 779 653 2411 207 13. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Trad8 deblors Renl Receivable Other debtors Prepayments 1,625,717 24.533 572,153 89,004 2311 407 1,168,560 66,802 505,866 1 838 406 14. CREDITORS: AMOIJNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 31.3.24 31.3.23 Trade credllors Social secLJrily and other taxes Other creditors Oeferred income Accrued expenses 121.D54 167,838 52,504 169,926 186,448 47,734 43,881 39.434 487 423 382231 15. SECURED DEBTS A charge has been secured On the freehold property known as Karen House on 16 March 2020, In favour of the Heart of England Community Foundation, by way ofa legal mortgage. 16. ANALYSIS OF NET ASSETS BETWEEN FUNDS 31.3.24 Total funds 31.3.23 Total funds Unrestricted funds Restricted funds Fixed assets Current assets Current liabilities 1.799.746 5.378.335 382,231 6 795 850 979 907 742 908 2.779.653 6.121,241 382,231 8 518 663 2,411,207 4,801,273 487 423) 6 725 057 1 722813 Page 26 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 17. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS Nel movement in funds Transfers between funds At 31.3.24 At 1.4.23 Unrestrlcted funds General fund Service Conlinuity Fund Strategic Development Fund Pioperty Conlingerbcy Fund Redundancy reserve Capital reserve 2.475.388 1,081,347 364,915 235,000 122.500 1.250.000 5,529,150 1,308444 (674,0411 54,067 18,245 30,000 33,000 496,985 (41,744) 3,109,791 1,135,414 383,160 260,000 155,500 1746,985 6,795,850 1.308.444 Restricted funds Refuge Based Support Community Based Support Heart of England Capital Grant Bungalows Developmenl 15,140 378.028 802,731 10000 347 322 117 1211 144961 485.162 1 793 606 125,14131 17,556 742,906 785,610 194,297 1722 813 8 518663 49,336 1 195907 6 725 057 TOTAL FUNDS Net movemenl in funds, included in the above are as follows,. Incoming resources Resources expended Movement in funds Unrestrlcted funds General fund 7,490,051 {6,181,607) 1,308.444 Regtrlcted fund8 Refug& Bas8d Support Community Bas8d Support Heart of England Capital Granl Bungalows Development 10,000 2,347,377 10,000 347,322 117.1211 144.961 485 162 1793 606 {2,000,055) (17,121) 24 336) 2 041 5121 169297 2 526 674 TOTAL FUNDS Page 2T Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 17. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- contlnued Comparatlves for movement In lunds Nel movement in funds Transfers between funds At 31.3.23 At 1.4.22 Unrestrlcled funds General fund Service Continuity Fund Strategic Development Fund Property Contingency Fund Redundancy reserve Capital re8eNe 2.000.588 496.022 175,000 100.QOQ 100.000 1.000.000 3,871,590 1,659159 {1,184,3391 585,325 189,915 135.000 22,500 250,000 (1.599) 2,475,388 1,081,347 364,915 235,000 122,500 1250,000 5,529,150 1.659.159 R8stricted funds Refuge Based Support Community Based Support HcDrt of Englond Capital Grent 18,160 481.757 818,321 1.318,238 5.189,828 130121 1103 7291 17189 12.3.930) 1535 229 15,148 378,028 802 731 1 195,907 6 725 057 1,599 TOTAL FUNDS Comparative nel movement in funds, included in the above are as follows- Incoming resources Resources expended Mov8m8nt in funds Unrestrlcted fund$ General fund 6,323,555 {4,664,398) 1,659.159 Restrlcted funds Refug& Based Support Community Based Support Hoart of England Capitsl Granl 50,000 2,226,960 {53,012) {2,330,689) 17 189) 2 400 8901 {7,065,286) (3.0121 1103.7291 17,1891 123 9301 1,535.229 2 276 960 8,600,515 TOTAL FUNDS The General Fund is to meet the day to day cash flow requirements ofthe charity. The Service Continuity Fund provides for the costs of closure as well as 6 months running costs in the event of withdrawal of funding. The Strategic Development Fund provides for the organisation to undertake research and development to inform futur8 service provision and secure additional funds lor long term service delivèry. The Property Contingency Fund provides suffiLienl funds lo maintain the Charity's properties lo a high slandard and to ensure routine repairs arKJ maintenance are carried out. Th8 R8dundancy Resarve is to cover th8 Potential costs of redundancy ovar the capped limit to long term employe8s. The Capilal Reserve comprises funds sel aside for the Drganisation to invest in property in order lo meet future demand for its Se￿ICe$. Tho R@fug@ Based SLlPPOrt Fund provid@s welfare and activitias for women and childrÈn residing in our rèfugès. Page 28 Black Couniry Women's Ald Notes to the Flnanclal Statements - conllnued for the Year Ended 31 March 2024 17. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS- contlnued Community Based Support provides home based support, including SUPPOrt and counsellin9 to women and children who are victims of sexual violence and a helpline for Asian women. Part of this serrfice was previously treated separately as 'Rape Support Service, Out as services have changed over the years, It Is now more approprlale to encompass Ihese services under one umbrella. Heart of England Capital Grant is a reslricted fund for a capital project, the balance represents the net book value of the assets relating lo that fvnd. Bungalows Development is a restricted fund for a capital project where the balance represents funds specifically donated to the project by third parties such as HSBC, Garfield Weston. The Clolhworkers, Foundatlon and the Eveson Charitable Trust. 18. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES Th8re wer8 no related party transactions for the year 8nded 31 March 2024. Page 29 This document was delivered using electronic communications and authenticated in accordance with thc registrar's rulcs relating to elcctronic form, authentication and manner of delivery under section 1072 of the Companies Act 2006.